El Cajon economic picture mostly upbeat

"The budget process continues to call for maintenance of fiscal discipline, scrutiny of all expenditures and identification of cost-saving opportunities whenever and wherever possible," Williford said. "The longer-term goal is to provide adequate funding for capital maintenance and replacement in addition to addressing unfunded retirement obligations. We must continue to exercise fiscal constraints within the confines of a balanced budget and strive to provide essential city services."

The proposed budget also notes the addition of two El Cajon police officers and the reduction of one fire position. The city is adding a two-person bike team. The full-time unit will address "nuisance crimes" and quality of life issues such as serial inebriates. Public safety accounts for nearly 70 percent of the city's General Fund budget.